Understanding 03 5434 4505
The phone number 03 5434 4505 / 0354344505 has raised concerns among users, with reports indicating it is involved in a fraudulent scheme impersonating a legitimate institution, Bendigo Bank. Various reviews highlight the deceptive tactics employed by this scam, while also presenting conflicting information about its legitimacy.
Classification: Scam!
A close examination of user reviews indicates that 03 5434 4505 / 0354344505 is primarily classified as a scam number. Users report receiving calls that allegedly originate from Bendigo Bank, yet the callers often exhibit suspicious behaviours, such as having foreign accents and requesting that victims call back on a different number (1300 328 007). The voicemail messages, often accompanied by texts claiming to be from "BEN BANK," heighten the fraudulent nature of these calls.
Identifying the Scam
This scam falls under the category of impersonation, which is a common tactic used by fraudsters to gain personal and financial information. By claiming to be from a trusted institution like Bendigo Bank, scammers prey on unsuspecting victims, hoping to instil fear or urgency, prompting them to comply with unnecessary requests.
What to Do if You Receive a Call from This Number
- Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from 03 5434 4505 / 0354344505, avoid interacting with the caller. Do not provide any personal information.
- Verify Independently: If you believe the call may be legitimate, hang up and contact Bendigo Bank directly using their official contact details found on their website.
- Report the Scam: Inform the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or the relevant authorities regarding the scam call.
- Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup: For any suspicious numbers, consider using Reverseau, a reverse phone lookup service in Australia, to identify the caller.
Final Thoughts
As evidenced by the reviews, 03 5434 4505 / 0354344505 is not affiliated with Bendigo Bank. Trust your instincts, and approach unsolicited calls with caution. Using a service like Reverseau can help you navigate these tricky situations and ascertain who called you from Australia, aiding in protecting your financial information and peace of mind.